Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 109700M) is a Certificate IV delivered by Pax Institute of Education Pty Ltd over 1 year 5 months (~72 weeks). This nationally accredited qualification (AQF Level 4, VET code SIT40521) is designed for aspiring culinary professionals who want to move into supervisory or management roles in commercial kitchens. Offered at two convenient Melbourne locations — 54-56 La Trobe St and Level 16, 190 Queen Street — this course combines practical cookery skills with kitchen management principles. Graduates are prepared to lead teams, control costs, and ensure quality standards in restaurants, hotels, and catering operations. As a CRICOS-registered course (109700M) at a CRICOS-registered provider (03152D), international students are protected under the ESOS Act. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers offering hospitality courses, making it a vibrant hub for culinary education. Whether you're aiming to become a head chef or kitchen manager, this course provides a pathway to Australia's thriving hospitality industry.
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Certificate IV in Kitchen Management (CRICOS course code 109700M) is a Certificate IV delivered by Pax Institute of Education Pty Ltd over 1 year 5 months (~72 weeks). This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS) under provider code 03152D. It belongs to the field of Food, Hospitality and Personal Services (broad field 11) with a focus on Food and Hospitality (narrow field 1101) and specifically Cookery (detailed field 110109). The qualification is nationally recognised and aligns with the SIT40521 training package. Students learn advanced cooking techniques, menu planning, food safety, and kitchen management. Upon completion, graduates can pursue roles such as chef, kitchen manager, or catering supervisor. Melbourne's dynamic food scene offers abundant opportunities for practical experience and employment. All CRICOS-registered courses must meet strict quality standards, ensuring students receive a high-quality education.
This course covers a range of competencies required for managing kitchen operations. Students develop skills in preparing and cooking complex dishes, designing menus, managing budgets, and leading kitchen teams. The curriculum includes units on food safety, nutrition, sustainability, and customer service. While specific unit details are set by the provider, typical Certificate IV level studies in cookery address both practical and theoretical aspects of kitchen management. Graduates are equipped to coordinate workflow, monitor food quality, and maintain compliance with health regulations. The course also fosters problem-solving and communication skills essential for supervisory roles. With Melbourne being a major culinary destination, students benefit from exposure to diverse cuisines and industry practices.
The course duration is 1 year 5 months (~72 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. Instruction is delivered in English. This is a single qualification (no dual or combined awards) and does not include foundation studies. Students attend classes at either 54-56 La Trobe St or Level 16, 190 Queen Street in Melbourne's CBD. Both campuses are easily accessible via public transport, including trains, trams, and buses. Melbourne's central location offers a vibrant student life with numerous cafes, libraries, and study spaces. The 72-week duration allows for in-depth coverage of both practical and theoretical components, with scheduled breaks aligning with the academic calendar.
The indicative tuition fee for Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is A$25,000, with non-tuition fees of A$2,000 (covering materials, administration, etc.), bringing the estimated total to A$27,000. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change by the provider. Additional costs not included are Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the student visa application charge. For current and accurate fee information, always refer to the provider's official website at www.pax.edu.au. Living costs in Melbourne are estimated at around A$500–700 per week for accommodation, food, and transport, so budget accordingly. As a free resource, HeadStart Academy receives no commission or referral fees — fees listed are for guidance only.
International students are typically required to demonstrate English proficiency, with an IELTS overall score of 5.0–5.5 (or equivalent). Prior qualifications expected for Certificate IV level may include completion of Year 12 or equivalent, or a Certificate III in Cookery. The provider may also consider relevant work experience. Foundation or pathway options may be available — contact Pax Institute directly for details. All entry requirements are set by the institution and should be confirmed before applying. Remember, meeting entry requirements does not guarantee a visa; students must satisfy the Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion and other visa conditions.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. However, student visa holders may work up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks (subject to visa conditions). Melbourne's hospitality industry offers many part-time opportunities for students, which can help offset living costs and gain local experience. Always check your visa conditions regarding work rights.
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is delivered at two locations in Melbourne, Victoria: 54-56 La Trobe St, Melbourne VIC 3000 and Level 16, 190 Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. Both campuses are situated in the heart of Melbourne's Central Business District, close to major transport hubs, shopping, and dining precincts. Melbourne is home to over 200 CRICOS-registered providers and has a large international student population, making it a dynamic and welcoming city for study. The city offers diverse culinary experiences, world-class restaurants, and a thriving food culture that complements cookery studies. Public transport is efficient, with trams and trains connecting all suburbs.
International students enrolling in this course typically apply for a Student visa (Subclass 500). Key requirements include: Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) from a CRICOS-registered provider, evidence of English proficiency, sufficient funds for tuition, living costs, and OSHC, and a genuine temporary entrant (GTE) statement. Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is mandatory for the duration of the visa. As of 2025, the student visa application charge is approximately A$710 (subject to change). Work rights allow up to 48 hours per fortnight during term and unlimited hours during breaks. For visa advice, consult a registered migration agent (MARA) or the Department of Home Affairs.
Follow these three steps to apply for Certificate IV in Kitchen Management at Pax Institute of Education Pty Ltd:
1. Research CRICOS-registered providers: Use HeadStart Academy to filter courses by level, field, and location. Verify the provider's CRICOS registration (03152D) and course code (109700M).
2. Apply directly to your chosen institution: Check entry requirements (English test scores, prior qualifications) and submit your application through the provider's website. Be aware of application deadlines and required documents.
3. Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500): Once accepted, you'll receive a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include evidence of OSHC, financial capacity, and GTE statement.
Ready to start your culinary career? Explore this course and apply through HeadStart Academy — your free guide to CRICOS-registered courses in Australia.
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management is a CRICOS-registered programme at Pax Institute of Education Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.